Narraterra recommends

I had heard so much about this book, and the title is certainly one that is hard to ignore. But what I found was so much more than I ever expected: a mix of heartbreak and hearty laughs, of childish innocence and a girl who just wanted to make her mother happy.

Jennette McCurdy's memoir is a raw and poignant exploration of her tumultuous relationship with her mother and the emotional scars left by her experiences as a child actor. Through candid storytelling, McCurdy delves into themes of trauma, identity and recovery, revealing how her mother's controlling behaviour shaped her life and career. The book's unfiltered narrative highlights the power of storytelling in healing and self-discovery, showcasing how sharing personal truths can empower people to reclaim their voice and redefine their narrative.

I have been justifying every purchase over the past decade with the need to accumulate Qantas frequent flyer points. But that will certainly prove a more challenging task after reading Joe Aston’s no-holds-barred account of every questionable and often downright ludicrous path that Qantas ventured down under the reign of Alan Joyce.

The Chairman's Lounge is a compelling exposé on the inner workings of power, money and influence in Australia, told through the lens of Qantas and its controversial practices. The book delves into how the airline, once a national icon, shifted its focus to profits at the expense of its customers and employees, leading to ethical failings and public scrutiny.

This story illustrates how stories have the power to hold institutions accountable and spark broader conversations about ethics and leadership. Through his incisive writing, Aston demonstrates how storytelling can challenge the status quo, inspire reflection, and drive change.

Set against the backdrop of Marina Abramovic's iconic performance piece The Artist is Present, The Museum of Modern Love is a captivating novel that intertwines art, love and the human condition. It delves into the realities of grappling with personal and creative struggles, and of navigating loss - not only of ourselves but of the world around us.

Just as Marina Abramovic's performance invites viewers to confront their emotions and life experiences, storytelling creates space for shared understanding and reflection. Through narratives, whether personal or fictional, we find a way to connect with others, bridge differences, and uncover truths that resonate universally. The Museum of Modern Love exemplifies how storytelling, like art, has the power to transform, heal, and deepen our understanding of ourselves and the world around us.

Full disclosure: Sonia is a friend of mine, but more importantly, she is someone from whom I am constantly learning. She is incredibly generous with her knowledge and experience, and her Substack is no exception.

In her post titled “Stories hide in plain sight”, she highlights the problem which often goes unaddressed when it comes to storytelling for business: we start at the end. But if we shift our focus to why we are sharing a story, instead of wholly on the how we share it, we might just be surprised by what we uncover.

Read the post here.

This is by no means a new find. On the contrary, it has been perched on my shelf for the better part of half a decade, patiently awaiting the day when I would be ready to lose myself in its pages. As it turns out, I found myself instead.

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Maxine Beneba Clarke masterfully weaves her personal experiences with racism and identity, showcasing the truly transformative power of storytelling. Her evocative writing invites readers to reflect, empathise, and understand the profound impact of words. This book is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the importance of authenticity when sharing our stories, to inspire change and connection.

In Drumstick’s new 'Classic' campaign, storytelling takes centre stage by celebrating those timeless, everyday moments that resonate with Australians. Nostalgia is a powerful storytelling tool, and this campaign integrates it seamlessly, connecting with audiences and reminding them of the joy that Drumstick brings to summer days. Storytelling in this case reinforces Drumstick's enduring legacy and creates a deep emotional bond with consumers.​

Read the article here.

Nora Ephron has an uncanny ability to make you feel as though you’re talking to your childhood best friend about how unbelievably frustrating life can be - particularly when you can’t find the right handbag.

In this witty and heartfelt collection of personal essays, Nora Ephron candidly explores the realities of ageing with humour and grace. Her storytelling prowess shines as she navigates the ups and downs of life, offering insights that are both relatable and inspiring. This book reminds us of the power of embracing our stories, no matter where life takes us.​